Social Worker - Tokoroa

Position Overview

Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children in Tokoroa, Waikato, New Zealand, seeks a dedicated Social Worker passionate about enhancing the wellbeing of tamariki (children) and rangatahi (youth). This role offers a chance to engage in meaningful work that positively impacts lives, supporting children at risk of harm through culturally informed practice and community collaboration.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Listen to and support tamariki and rangatahi, along with their whānau (families), to facilitate positive changes in their lives.
• Engage effectively with diverse cultural groups and individuals from varied backgrounds.
• Conduct comprehensive assessments of tamariki, rangatahi, and whānau to guide intervention plans.
• Organize and lead hui (meetings) focusing on building family capability to care for their children and youth.
• Participate in designing and implementing support interventions aimed at keeping tamariki and rangatahi within their family environments.
• Collaborate with community partners, NGOs, and government agencies to provide holistic support.
• Advocate for tamariki and rangatahi to ensure they receive appropriate support and resources to achieve their potential.

Candidate Profile and Requirements

• Current full, clean New Zealand driver's license.
• Registered with the New Zealand Social Work Registration Board (SWRB) holding a valid practicing certificate.
• Experience working in the child protection sector in New Zealand, preferably within NGOs or Oranga Tamariki itself.
• Strong empathy, patience, and the capability to perceive underlying struggles beyond immediate challenges.
• Proficient in analyzing and developing social work and ancillary plans, such as financial plans.
• Exemplary judgment and organizational skills with the ability to manage risk and make difficult decisions.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, adept at tailoring messages to different audiences and composing legal documents like court reports and case notes.
• A positive and supportive attitude conducive to collaborative work.

About the Organisation

Oranga Tamariki is committed to centering tamariki and rangatahi in every decision, ensuring New Zealand is ideal for child development. The organisation works in partnership with hapū, iwi, and Māori groups to find culturally appropriate, child-focused solutions. Its values emphasize compassion (aroha), respect for people’s dignity (mana), integrity (tika and pono), acknowledgment of ancestry (whakapapa), and a lifelong journey towards wellbeing (oranga).

Benefits and Work Environment

• A competitive salary scale starting from $81,206 to $97,557 annually, reflecting experience and including a post-graduate incentive.
• Annual progression opportunities tied to tenure and experience.
• A supportive and diverse team culture with flexible working options.
• Commitment to employee wellbeing and extensive professional training and development to foster career growth.
• An inclusive, respectful workplace valuing diversity.

Application Process and Additional Information

Applicants should submit their CV and a cover letter online, using official Oranga Tamariki channels if already employed by the ministry. The deadline for applications is midnight, 23rd August 2026, with early submission recommended as interviews may start before closing. Candidates should familiarize themselves with the organisation’s code of conduct, including expectations to work free from the effects of drugs and alcohol.